One Snowy Night (Sweet Home, Alaska #1) - Patience Griffin Page 0,114

“I’m tired of traipsing back and forth between Wandering Moose and the lodge.” Suddenly she stopped talking and turned left and right, searching the back seat.

“What are you looking for?” Donovan asked.

“Where’s Boomer?”

“We left your dog back at the lodge,” Donovan said.

“Are you kidding me?” Ella was incensed. “What would’ve happened to him if I hadn’t saved you two?”

“Another reason you better not run away again,” Donovan said.

A second flashlight shone in the window.

Ella cracked open her door to the man standing outside.

“Are you folks all right?” he said. “I saw the orange flag from the road.”

“I already called 911,” Ella responded confidently, “but could you wait at the road to show them where we are?”

“You bet. Can I do anything else for you in the meantime?” he asked.

“No,” Ella said. “We’re going to be okay.”

Chapter 21

TWO DAYS LATER, Hope and Donovan were recovering on the couch, watching as the Wines of Alaska tasting kicked off the Christmas Festival. Jesse had hung all of Izzie’s artwork, making the lodge feel that much more like home. People—Sweet Home residents and visitors from other towns joining in the celebration—packed the living room, dining room, and kitchen . . . just like the old days.

“I feel like a couch potato,” Hope said a little glumly. She was used to staying busy and it was downright painful sitting here—though leaning against Donovan’s strong body was heavenly.

“Really? I’m quite enjoying it.” Donovan had his broken leg propped up on a chair. “You know, doctor’s orders specifically included couch potatoing until your concussion heals. Try to enjoy the break. We’ll be busy soon enough. Rick said reservations are pouring in on the website. Besides, it’s nice to just sit here with you next to me.” He wrapped his arm around her.

Hope smiled. “I am relishing in that part of the recovery.” She played with the ring on the chain around her neck. It was like back in high school, but instead of Donovan’s class ring, it was his grandmother’s engagement ring. They hadn’t told a soul yet, so she dropped the ring back inside her shirt and went back to scanning the happy faces around them. “They really didn’t need us to bring the Christmas Festival back to life.”

He kissed her forehead. “Yeah, they did.”

Hope understood. Miss Lisa had let it slip about Piney’s plan to get her and Donovan back together . . . which in a way had brought the town together, too.

“I’m really grateful,” Hope said, “that the Sisterhood of the Quilt swooped in and took over. Everything looks great.” She touched the bandage on his forehead. “If it’s okay with you, I hope it leaves a scar. Scars can be sexy. You know, like Poldark.”

“Stop fantasizing about other men,” he said with good humor.

“I’m not. It’s just that Poldark . . .” She sighed. “But I’ve never seen you look more handsome and rugged.”

He laughed. “I think either the concussion or the painkillers have gotten to you.” Then he got serious. “How are you feeling? Maybe it’s time for you to lie down and rest.”

“I’m good. With you by my side, everything feels perfect.”

Ella joined them. “Can I sit for a minute?” She squeezed between them, laying her head on Hope’s shoulder.

“Good,” Hope said. “I’m glad you’re here. I was just getting ready to talk to your dad about the hardware store.”

“I bet I can guess,” Donovan said. “You want to talk about the quilt shop.”

“You know me so well.”

“Just get with Rick and have him set up accounts at the fabric companies,” Donovan said.

“Can I work the counter, cutting fabric?” Ella asked. “I’m pretty good at it.”

“Of course you can work the quilt counter,” Donovan said. “In fact, if you want, I’d love for you to learn all aspects of the hardware store. It’s in your blood, you know. We’ve all worked there—your great-grandfather and great-grandmother, your grandfather, your uncle Beau, and me.” He paused. “And half the town has worked there, too.”

“I can’t wait. But what are you going to do about tomorrow, Dad?” Ella pointed at his cast.

He wrapped an arm around her. “The ribbon-cutting ceremony at the hardware store?”

“Yeah.”

“I’m going to send you to cut the ribbon,” he said.

“Really? That’s so cool! But are you sure?” Ella asked.

“Yes, I’m needed right here to take care of your mom.”

Ella guffawed. “Yeah, right. I’ve seen you with those crutches. You’re so clumsy I thought you were going to break your neck when you were getting the marriage license on the